What is the optimum temperature and weather conditions for skiing?

Question

...way below freezing, a few degrees above freezing, or spring conditions?

Answer 1

Optimum in what way? If it's too cold, the snow won't melt (on the microscopic level) which creates a thin film of water on which the ski glides. This will heavily increase the coefficient of friction...meaning you don't go anywhere!! Wax can help, but even way below freezing the skis will probably be a little "grabby" or "sticky".

Anything else is generally okay, provided you wax for the correct temperature and conditions. Of course, if it's too warm, it all melts away and you ride on mud!!

Spring conditions can be fun...corn snow is a blast. Nice and warm, skiing in shorts, etc.

Of course, I would prefer boiler plate any day!!

<sarcasm>

Answer 2

I have found that 20* F. is about perfect.  Its not so cold that you have to wear to much clothing.  It also is good for the ski contacting the snow.  Not to close to the melting point to where its sloppy.  Have fun no matter what the conditions.

Answer 3

It depends, if you want personnal comfort spring skiing is the best. For snow conditions a consistent  just below freezing temperature is best. But it's real bad if it's warm during the day then cold at night because that causes a lot of ice.